Earlier this morning, Environment Canada issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Ottawa Region. A significant winter storm is expected Wednesday evening into Thursday with current total snowfall amounts of 20 to 40 centimetres forecasted and snowfall rates possibly exceeding 5 centimetres per hour. That’s a lot of snow! Although confidence is increasing that the storm will impact Ottawa, there is uncertainty on the track of this low-pressure system, making the exact snowfall amounts unknown at this time.
Given the current forecast, it is very likely a Winter Weather Parking Ban will be required. The timing and duration of the ban will be determined as we get closer to the event. Residents are encouraged to stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
The Roads and Parking Services team is preparing for this winter event by getting our equipment ready and our salt domes filled. Crews that are currently working on snow removal operations in select areas of the city will be reallocated to respond to this winter event, and all resources will be deployed. Meanwhile, our Parks Maintenance partners will be out in full force, clearing City facility parking lots (with a priority on Fire and Paramedic stations) as well as lots serving recreation centres.
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the forecast over the next 36 hours.
